Psalm Meditation 1317 ¶Proper 19 ¶September 14, 2025 ¶Psalm 21 https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=psalm%2021&version=NRSVUE ¶In the biblical era, the fortunes of a nation were bound up with the fortune of the ruler. This is still true in some parts of the world today. The ruler owns everything, and doles out fortune and favor for the benefit of the whole population. If the ruler is blessed with riches and long life, the whole people is more likely to benefit from these blessings. If the ruler finds joy in the presence of the LORD, the people also find joy in God, and trust in the providence and steadfast love of the LORD. ¶Royal enemies were enemies of the whole realm, and God was called upon to defeat those enemies for the sake of the ruler, the people, and in the name of the LORD. As God defeated enemies, it was believed that the LORD proved mastery over the divinities of those nations who attempted to conquer the people of the LORD. The people of the LORD sing praises for the strength and power that keeps them safe from those who wish to destroy them for any number of reasons. ¶While we continue to be influenced by those entrusted to rule over us, we do have a little more personal agency. Some are able to amass personal fortunes and wield power and influence as if they had the authority to rule over people and nations. Each of us is able to give glory to God and to live in the steadfast love that gives our lives meaning and purpose. “Be exalted, O Lord, in your strength! We will sing and praise your power.” ¶September 9, 2025 ¶LCM